PHOTO: Steeple down, but saved at Vassalboro United Methodist Church

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photo by Dale Potter-Clark

Sadly, the steeple on the 36-year-old Vassalboro United Methodist Church was removed by Burke Roofing, of West Gardiner, on Thursday. Leaks had caused water damage and rot in several areas of the roof decking, and the steeple itself had deteriorated and was leaking in several places as well. The steeple was saved and will be added to the church memorial garden at a later time. More photos and videos of its removal can be seen on the Vassalboro United Methodist Church Facebook page.

Text and photo by Dale Potter-Clark

Scouts spend weekend at wildlife refuge

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Troop #433 Winslow participated as the first unit to spread gravel on the trail to the new Moosehorn photo blind built for visitors to take photos of wildlife without being seen by the wildlife. Front row, from left to right, Ashish DeBas, Parker LeHay, Zack LeHay, Ashlyn McDermott, Fallyn Soucy, and Addison Poulin(SPL). Middle row, Millard Davis(SM for the weekend), Wyatt Smith, Wyatt Collins, and Allison Dorr. Back, Gerard Fortin, Ryan Poulin, and Garth Smith. (photo by Chuck Mahaleris)

by Chuck Mahaleris

The Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge in Barring, is a 30,000-acre treasure that is home to over 225 species of birds, endangered species, resident wildlife and for one weekend in September it was also home to Gods and Demigods and nearly two hundred Scouts and leaders.

Scouts from both Canada and the United States camped on the refuge’s rolling hills and competed in activities near her streams and bogs and marshes during the event that took place on the weekend September 27-29.

“This was an absolutely fabulous weekend,” said Christopher Bernier, of Winslow, who served as Campmaster for the 62nd annual Moosehorn/Cobscook International Camporee. “The kids all had a great time and so many people from the Moosehorn Ranger staff to the Scouting volunteers from two countries made this incredible weekend possible.”

Scouts not only competed in fun activities during the camporee, they also had to set up their tents, cook their meals, and help with other chores in the campsite. Joshua Gilpin prepares breakfast for eager fellow Troop #485 scouts Thomas Gage (left) and Derek Dubois (back wearing hat). All are from Skowhegan. (photo by Chuck Mahaleris)

As part of the activities, all of the Scouts took part in trail maintenance projects at the refuge as their “Good Deed” for nature.

The theme, which was selected by Scouts who attended last year’s event at Cobscook State Park, put Scouts in the role of hero to complete the challenges set before them by Gods and Demigods from myths of old.

These included, among others, Dagda’s Challenge from Celtic mythology to help nature; Artemis Archery Ace from Greek mythology where archery talent was needed to defeat the Trojans; Thor’s Hammer where Scouts see if they are worthy; Scouts stormed the Temple of Ra to find treasure but then they had to get out, too; and Zhu Rong’s Light where the Scouts had to prove they were worthy of the Chinese diety’s blessings three times.

Many Scouts chose to get into the spirit by wearing costumes for the event. The top-scoring patrol overall was 3rd and 4th Fredrericton, New Brunswich, Canada, followed by the Scouts who formed a Provisional unit because their troops did not attend, 1st Gondola New Brunswick, Troop #433 Winslow, and 1st Westfield.

Activities were not just for the Scouts. Adults competed in the “Epic One Pot Stew Competition”. Clinton’s Millard Davis’venison stew was the overall fan favorite.

Scouts who attended the camporee met before it was over to pick a theme for the 63rd annual international camporee – Zombie Apocalypse.

The program also included a campfire where each troop provided a song, skit, cheer, story or dance approved by their leader.

(photo by Chuck Mahaleris)

Vassalboro Legion to collect holiday gifts for veterans

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Veterans Administration facility at Togus. (Internet photo)

During the holiday season for the last three years, members of American Legion Post #126, Vassalboro, gathered personal care products, puzzle books, and snacks for veterans at Togus Veterans Home, in Augusta.

The members of American Legion Post #126, Vassalboro, are inviting you to join them as they collect. Once again, the Sew for a Cause group at St. Bridget Center have made and donated more than 250 Christmas stockings for this project. They will fill the stockings on December 9, 2024, at St Bridget Center, 864 Main St., North Vassalboro. All are welcome to sort and fill the stockings. The filled stockings will be delivered to Togus Veterans Home by December 12, 2024. To volunteer and/or make a donation call 207 616-3148.

EVENTS: Explore China’s transportation history at upcoming presentation

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Railroad owner Carson Peck and his party, on an inspection trip, around 1910 or so, in Windsor. (courtesy of the WW&F Museum)

by Eric W. Austin

The China Historical Society is pleased to invite the public to an engaging presentation on the history of the Wiscasset, Waterville & Farmington (WW&F) narrow gauge railway. This event, featuring local experts Bob Wallace and Phil Dow, from the Albion Historical Society, will take place next Thursday, October 17, at 7 p.m., at the China Baptist Church.

The presentation will offer a unique opportunity to explore the history of the narrow gauge railway that once played a vital role in connecting China to other towns in the region. Wallace will provide an in-depth look at the railway’s development and its significance to local communities, particularly the Weeks Mills station. In addition to the talk, attendees will be treated to a slideshow of historical photographs, offering a glimpse into the past and showcasing the railway’s impact on the area.

The WW&F railway, launched in the 1890s, was an essential transportation route for residents and businesses, ferrying people, produce, and goods between towns from Wiscasset to Windsor.

However, as automobiles and gasoline-powered trucks became more widespread in the mid-20th century, the narrow gauge railway could no longer compete, and it eventually ceased operations. While the tracks are no longer in use, the history of the railway continues to be an important part of the town’s heritage, offering a window into a time when the railroad was the lifeblood of rural Maine.

In addition to the historical insights provided by Bob Wallace, attendees will have the opportunity to see rare, archival photographs that capture the daily workings of the railway, including images of the Weeks Mills station and the railway’s trains.

The event is free and open to the public, although the China Historical Society encourages donations to support its ongoing work in preserving local history, and attendees are invited to consider joining the society as members. Annual membership dues are a modest $10, and these contributions help ensure that important stories like that of the WW&F railway continue to be shared with future generations.

The China Historical Society’s Narrow Gauge Railway Presentation will be held on Thursday, October 17, at 7 p.m., at the China Baptist Church, at the north end of the lake. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about the role the railway played in shaping the town’s development, this event promises to be an informative and engaging look into a fascinating chapter in China’s past.

Attend the presentation to meet other members of the community who are passionate about preserving and sharing China’s rich heritage, and for more information about upcoming events, follow the China Historical Society Facebook page.

Former Palermo man receives award from MDIF&W

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Zach Glidden

by Roland D. Hallee

Former local resident Zach Glidden, along with two other biologists, has been presented with the 2024 award from the Maine Department of Fisheries and Wildlife for a rescue last year.

On September 7, 2023, at approximately 3:30 p.m., retired fisheries biologist Nels Kramer took a direct phone call of a missing angler on Cold Stream Pond. The angler, an amputee of the leg, was reported missing by his wife. She called Nels, who is well known in the town, and said her husband had gone fishing on the lake and had not returned home, and was not answering his cell phone. Nels retrieved his personal boat and headed to the lake to initiate a search for the individual. While en route, Nels contacted his former colleagues in Enfield and asked for some help. Fisheries biologist Kevin Dunham and Zach Glidden immediately responded to assist in the search.

“This incident highlights that employees of MDIFW, even retirees, are truly committed to serving the public.”

– Maine Game Warden Joseph E. Bailey

About 45 minutes after the initial call, Nels, Kevin and Zach found the fisherman’s boat drifting in Sand Beach Cove with him aboard. The boater had fallen in the area of the transom and was in such a position that he was unable to get up or yell for help. He told the trio of rescuers he had fallen in the boat and later lost consciousness due to the heat.The three biologists were able to upright the fisherman and get him to shore. The estimation is that he was stuck there for up to five hours.

According to the nomination letter, “These three members of DIFW went outside of their wheelhouse to assist someone in need. Nels, Kevin and Zach acted quickly to rescue a boater in distress. Their decisive action saved the angler from further harm and potentially extended search incident by [the] warden service.”

According to Game Warden Joseph E. Bailey, who submitted the nomination letter, “this incident highlights that employees of MDIFW, even retirees, are truly committed to serving the public.”

Zach is the son of Rodney and Jane Glidden, of Palermo. He attended Erskine Academy, in South China, and was an Eagle Scout. He grew up in Palermo and now resides in Howland.

CHINA: William Lankist turns 90

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William Lankist, of China

William Lankist, of China, was honored on the occasion of his 90th birthday, at his home, recently. William was born on September 29, 1934, in Guilford, the oldest son of William and Hilda Lankist. He was educated in Guilford schools. He had three brothers, and is the sole survivor. He has been a resident of China for over 20 years, where he resides with his partner, Ruth Fuller.

Family and friends, especially his daughter, Tammy Bailey, attended from Guilford, Sidney, Albion and Unity, and William received a special telephone call from a nephew, Edward Lankist, who resides in Florida.

William did small engine repairs for most of his life.

PHOTOS: Central Maine high schools’ homecoming

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Lawrence high school and junior high school soccer teams. (photo by Casey Dugas, Central Maine Photography)

Members of the Messalonskee grades 1 and 2 red football team. (photo by Casey Dugas, Central Maine Photography)

Members of the Messalonskee grades 5-6 football team. (photo by Casey Dugas, Central Maine Photography)

Members of the Clinton Variety PAL football team. (photo by Casey Dugas, Central Maine Photography)

Spectrum Generations’ Celebrity Chef Challenge raises over $50K

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Three Maine chefs went head-to-head September 16, at the Augusta Civic Center, competing in Spectrum Generations’ 12th annual Celebrity Chef Challenge fundraiser and serving over 200 guests.

Chef Michael Gosselin, of bon Vivant, a vibrant part of Lewiston’s downtown, received the highly-coveted Judges’ Choice Award, and Chef Steven Dumas, an Augusta native and owner/head chef at Augusta’s Otto’s on the River, earned the People’s Choice Award. Joseph Tupper, head chef at the popular Muddy Rudder Restaurant, in Yarmouth, also created an inspiring dish that did not disappoint, according to a news release from Lindsay MacDonald, Vice President of Community Engagement for Spectrum Generations.

“These funds will have an immediate, positive impact for older adults and adults with disabilities that are homebound and facing food insecurity. Incredibly, over $30,000 worth of in-kind support was also donated by way of food, silent auction items and other goods and services. We couldn’t do our important work without this caring community of supporters,” said MacDonald.

Scouts drive provides scouting uniforms for 23 scouts; also helps food bank

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From left to right, Christopher Bernier, of Waterville, the Goodwill mascot, and Millard Davis, of Clinton, at the annual Scouting uniform drive at Goodwill, in Waterville. Photo by Chuck Mahaleris

by Chuck Mahaleris

From left, Millard Davis, of Clinton, Christopher Bernier, of Winslow, and new Cub Scout Kenneth Murray Bryar, of Fairfield, who recently joined Winslow Pack #445. Photo by Chuck Mahaleris

Kennebec Valley District Scouting volunteers, under the leadership of Christopher Bernier, of Winslow, held two uniform drives this month providing Scout uniforms to 23 children. The first uniform drive took place at the Waterville Goodwill of Northern New England location, on Wednesday afternoon, on September 8. The second drive took place on September 19 at the Winslow Parks and Recreation Building, at 114 Benton Ave.

Those scouts, who just joined Scouting, could receive an experienced uniform including the patches they would need for their program. Returning Scouts who had outgrown their uniform, could get one new to them by returning their old one for someone else. Christopher Bernier, who is Scoutmaster of the troop, in Winslow, also encouraged scouts to bring in a food item for the needy or something for an animal at the Humane Society Waterville Area.

“Scouting gives kids an opportunity to help other people – or animals – at all times,” Bernier said. Every youth who brought a food item for the Pleasant Street United Methodist Food Bank or for the animal shelter received a “Scouting for Food” patch to display on their new to them uniform. If you need a uniform, contact Chris at circleofone555@hotmail.com.

EVENTS: Erskine Academy Parent/Teacher Conferences scheduled

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(photo credit: Erskine Academy)

All parents of Erskine Academy students are invited to attend fall Parent/Teacher Conferences on October 9 and 10, 2024, from 3 – 7 p.m. To avoid long waiting lines, Wednesday, October 9, has been designated for students whose last names begin with A – K; and Thursday, October 10, has been designated for students whose last names begin with L – Z. No appointments are necessary as teachers will be available to speak with parents in their respective classrooms. In addition, the Guidance Office will host a Senior Blast for parents on each of these evenings from 6:30 – 7 p.m., to provide helpful updates and information about the post-secondary planning process, financial aid, and other pertinent senior year details.